tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51801089838177985162018-08-28T10:23:31.548-04:00SignatureSterlingYOU ARE BEING RE-DIRECTED TO MY NEW BLOG ~ MID-LIFE GREATER EXPECTATIONSMimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.comBlogger391125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-22511675215500918302011-11-27T11:17:00.000-05:002011-11-27T11:17:58.334-05:00<style type="text/css">.widget_container a:link, .widget_container a:active, .widget_container a:visited, .widget_container a:hover{ color:#ff6600; text-align:none; } </style> <br /><div class="widget_container" style="background: transparent url(http://static.artfire.com/modules/coupons/css/images/frame_2.jpg) no-repeat; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; height: 320px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 0; width: 160px;"><div style="color: #ff6600; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; overflow: hidden; padding: 65px 0 0 0; text-align: center;">Visit <a href="http://www.artfire.com/users/SignatureSterling">SignatureSterling's</a> Studio</div><div style="color: #333333; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; height: 65px; margin: 0; overflow: hidden; padding: 15px 5px 0 5px; text-align: center;">SAVE 27% Off Select Studio Categories</div><div style="color: #333333; font-size: 12px; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">Use Coupon Code:</div><div style="color: #ff6600; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">NOVDAILY</div><div style="color: #333333; font-size: 12px; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">during checkout.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Black Friday may be over but the sale here is still on now through the end of November at <a href="http://signaturesterling.artfire.com/">SignatureSterling</a>. In fact, if you're willing to wait and gamble that those earrings you've been eyeing or that necklace you really want will still be there, each day you wait, your discount grows.<br /><br />Here's how it works. Today is November 27th so your discount off all items (except custom items - "Heirlooms to Order," "Buckeye Nation" or "Custom") would be 27%. On Monday, the 28th, (if what you want is still there...) the discount would be 28%.<br /><br />Discounts may apply to multiple items. The only restriction is that you can not use this discount on custom order items. And once we reach midnight on November 30th (30%), this sale is over!<br /><br />So, start browsing &amp; if you don't want to gamble, start shopping now. Use the NOVDAILY coupon when you check out &amp; if it hasn't been updated yet, I'll refund the difference to you via PayPal.<br /></div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-86902515888294219032011-11-23T08:31:00.000-05:002011-11-23T08:31:05.383-05:00NOVEMBER'S DAILY DISCOUNT SALE!<style type="text/css">.widget_container, .widget_container a:link, .widget_container a:active, .widget_container a:visited, .widget_container a:hover{color:#ff6600;text-align:none;}</style> <div class="widget_container" style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; margin:0 auto;border:1px solid #ccc;background:transparent url(http://static.artfire.com/modules/coupons/css/images/frame_1.jpg) no-repeat; width:160px; height:320px; padding:0"><div style="color:#ff6600; font-size:14px; font-weight:bold; overflow:hidden; padding:65px 0 0 0; margin:0; text-align:center;">Visit <a href="http://www.artfire.com/users/SignatureSterling">SignatureSterling's</a> Studio</div><div style="height:65px; overflow:hidden; padding:15px 5px 0 5px; margin:0; text-align:center;">SAVE 23% Off Select Studio Categories</div><div style="color:#333; font-size:12px; font-weight:normal; text-align:center;">Use Coupon Code:</div><div style="color:#ff6600; font-size:12px; font-weight:bold; text-align:center;">NOVDAILY</div><div style="color:#333; font-size:12px; font-weight:normal; text-align:center;">during checkout.</div></div><div style="text-align:center;"><a href="http://christmas.artfire.com">Handmade Christmas</a> </div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-13864817446356318242011-11-18T12:11:00.000-05:002011-11-18T12:11:22.567-05:00The "Don't Wait til Black Friday Sale"<div style="text-align: justify;">Why wait for Black Friday when you get what you want at <a href="http://signaturesterling.artfire.com/">SignatureSterling</a> now through the end of November.&nbsp; In fact, if you're willing to wait and gamble that those earrings you've been eyeing or that necklace you really want will still be there, each day you wait, your discount grows.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here's how it works.&nbsp; Today is November 18th so your discount off all items (except custom items - "Heirlooms to Order," "Buckeye Nation" or "Custom") would be 18%.&nbsp; Tomorrow, on the 19th, the discount would be 19%....next Monday, the 28th, (if what you want is still there...) the discount would be 28%.&nbsp; Get it?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Shipping is the same as outlined in the descriptions.&nbsp; Discounts may apply to multiple items (woo-hoo!).&nbsp; The only restriction is that you can not use this discount on custom order items (sorry!).&nbsp; And once we reach midnight on November 30th (30%), this sale is over!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So, start browsing at <a href="http://signaturesterling.artfire.com/">SignatureSterling</a> and if you don't want to gamble, start shopping now.&nbsp; If you'd rather take a risk that your favorites will be there tomorrow or next week, go for it, but remember....once they're gone, they're gone!&nbsp; Gobble, gobble! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cJzcwdKkrfw/TsaRJflzv0I/AAAAAAAAFqY/KxWvN79LzMY/s1600/thanksgiving_turkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cJzcwdKkrfw/TsaRJflzv0I/AAAAAAAAFqY/KxWvN79LzMY/s320/thanksgiving_turkey.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-10825078514930206372011-05-18T11:58:00.000-04:002011-05-18T11:58:01.029-04:00Not Your Pain in the NeckDear Doctors, Nurses, ER Staff, Friends, and Family,<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I am a 52 year-old migraneur who suffered my first migraine at the age of 21.&nbsp; Over the last thirty years, the headaches have become more severe, more frequent, and, if untreated, more incapacitating.&nbsp; The only time during this period that I have been headache-free has been during my three pregnancies, certainly not a viable solution, and yes, doctors and specialists have explored hormone therapy to no avail.&nbsp; I have seen several neurologists, undergone many CT and MRI scans, had allergy testing and thorough blood work-ups.&nbsp; I have practiced mindfulness meditation, visualization meditation, and biofeedback.&nbsp; I have received massage therapy and chiropractic treatment.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Working with various physicians and said neurologists, I have been prescribed a wide variety of prescription analgesics, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, antihistamines, decongestants, anti-inflammatories, benzodiazepines, muscle relaxants, phenothiazines, steroids, triptans, and other prescriptions medications.&nbsp; None eliminated my headaches and after all these years only a few have me able to carry on with my daily routine as much as possible in the face of daily pain. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When I have a migraine that spirals out of control - meaning the pain cannot be controlled by the medication I have available to me at home - I have to go the hospital emergency room for treatment.&nbsp; One of the questions I am asked is to rate my pain on a scale of 1 - 10, with 10 being the worst pain ever.&nbsp; I reserve 10 for childbirth, live daily usually at no lower than a 4, and head to the ER when I hit an 8.&nbsp; Until the last few months, I have been able to control the migraines and keep these visits to once a quarter.&nbsp; Now, whether it is a hormonal change or an organic cause, the migraines are controlling me, and ER visits have escalated to twice a week to manage the pain.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Next week I will be heading to a leading headache clinic where I am hopeful that the multi-disciplinary team there will finally be able to help me break this cycle and manage an approach that will give me the tools (medicine and lifestyle) when I leave from my extended stay to be, if not headache-free, at least pain-manageable.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">However, the last few weeks, as I've been in and out of the ER and dealt with doctors, nurses, ER staff and even my own specialists in follow-up care, I've realized the lack of understanding among many regarding migraines.&nbsp; A migraine is not just a headache.&nbsp; A migraine is not just caused by stress.&nbsp; Loud noises and lights are very distressing to migraine sufferers - nurses and doctors, please take note of this when you talk, open/close doors, use lights in rooms.&nbsp; I can still hear you if you talk softly, and my head won't pound as much nor will my nausea swell should you use your normal or loud voice.&nbsp; A migraneur is not a junkie; I do not want to be in the ER.&nbsp; I wish more than anything that the medicine I had at home had handled the migraine.&nbsp; It didn't.&nbsp; Lecturing me about the dangers of addiction to I.V. analgesics when I am at a pain level 9 is not helpful, especially when you are well aware that I am scheduled to go inpatient at one of the country's top headache clinics in a matter of weeks.&nbsp; On the other hand, while I am open to alternative medicine (and realize the clinic I will be entering embraces the best of cutting edge western medicine as well as the healing arts of eastern approaches), again, when I'm at a level 9, please don't share with me that I must get my chakras in balance and find a good Reikist (as supposedly learned from Wayne Dyer and Tony Robbins while visiting on Fiji), just give me the meds I need to break through the migraine.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Realizing that a migraine is not caused by stress, stress can be and often is a trigger for migraines.&nbsp; That being said, I understand that no life can be stress-free, and working on stress management will undoubtedly be a priority - and recognizing stress triggers - during my stay at the headache clinic.&nbsp; I expect life will be different when I return.&nbsp; I hope life will be different when return.&nbsp; I hope life will be better&nbsp; when I return, and I hope my family and friends will be patient with me.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Peace.&nbsp; </div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-4371989319240361992010-12-07T16:51:00.001-05:002010-12-08T08:51:23.191-05:00TIS THE SEASON!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TP6p_zR7VDI/AAAAAAAAFeo/9VrCl1P2ldk/s320/Midnight+Inspiration.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="290" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&amp;op=listing&amp;product_id=1990894">Midnight Inspiration</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The SignatureSterling "elves" are busy, busy, busy ~ and we want to let you know it's not too late to get your holiday orders in....BUT some important order/shipping dates are coming up for holiday delivery.&nbsp; Check your lists and our shops at <a href="http://signaturesterling.artfire.com/">signaturesterling.artfire.com</a> and <a href="http://signaturesterling.etsy.com/">signaturesterling.etsy.com</a> to see if you need to pick up something special for that special someone or for someone special like you this season! :)<br /><br /><b>Sunday, December 12th</b> ~ last day to order/pay for custom listings to receive for Christmas delivery<br /><b>Friday, December 17th</b> ~ last day to order/pay for all other listings to receive for Christmas delivery<br /><b>Monday, December 20th</b> ~ January 2nd&nbsp; Shops are closed for holiday season and will reopen January 3rd. <br /><br />Blessings and peace to you and yours this holiday season!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TP6rJP1RWlI/AAAAAAAAFes/u0962e3LGg8/s1600/Holiday+Pearls3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="279" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TP6rJP1RWlI/AAAAAAAAFes/u0962e3LGg8/s320/Holiday+Pearls3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/8014616/holiday-pearls-earrings-swarovski-pearls">Holiday Pearls</a></td></tr></tbody></table>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-10839506698287890822010-12-05T03:00:00.152-05:002010-12-08T08:52:22.007-05:00HOLLY DAY BLOG HOP<div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div align="left" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GWzEB64rUJc/TPnbPkFv-FI/AAAAAAAACAo/7hy5qXXuBpE/s1600/hollyday_1.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546705476515788882" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GWzEB64rUJc/TPnbPkFv-FI/AAAAAAAACAo/7hy5qXXuBpE/s320/hollyday_1.png" style="display: block; height: 160px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br /><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></div></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Check out all of the fabulous holiday-themed projects, gift ideas, and more from our wonderful EtsyMom Blog Hop Contributors from around the world!!</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.crazyadorable.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #66cccc;">www.crazyadorable.blogspot.com/</span></a><span style="color: #66cccc;"><br /></span><a href="http://www.thecountrychiccottage.net/2010/12/etsymom-blog-hop-giveaway-with-ornament.html">http://www.thecountrychiccottage.net</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #66cccc;"> </span></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #330000;"><a href="http://signature-sterling.blogspot.com/2010/12/holly-day-blog-hop.html">www.signature-sterling.blogspot.com/</a><br /></span><span style="color: #999999;"><a href="http://allyouneeddesigns.blogspot.com/2010/12/holly-day-blog-hop-with-etsymom-street.html">www.allyouneeddesigns.blogspot.com/</a><br /></span><a href="http://tctliebel.typepad.com/life_as_we_live_it/2010/12/its-a-holly-day-blog-hop.html">www.tctliebel.typepad.com</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://rikrakstudio.blogspot.com/2010/12/etsymom-blog-hop-sweet-salt-dough.html">http://rikrakstudio.blogspot.com</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #66cccc;"><a href="http://singingthreelittlebirds.blogspot.com/2010/12/etsy-mom-holly-day-blog-hop.html">www.singingthreelittlebirds.blogspot.com/</a><br /></span><span style="color: #330000;"><a href="http://camelotstreasures.blogspot.com/2010/12/etsymom-holly-day-blog-hop.html">http://camelotstreasures.blogspot.com</a><br /></span><span style="color: #330000;"> </span><span style="color: #330000;"> </span><a href="http://homemadebyamanda.blogspot.com/2010/12/blog-hop-holiday-inspiration.html">www.homemadebyamanda.blogspot.com/</a><br /><span style="color: #66cccc;"><a href="http://annavirginiafashion.blogspot.com/2010/12/piggy-peeps-baby-shoes-pattern-holly.html">www.annavirginiafashion.blogspot.com/</a><br /></span><a href="http://mylavenderave.blogspot.com/2010/12/holly-days-blog-hop-delicious-fudge.html">www.mylavenderave.blogspot.com/</a><span style="color: #66cccc;"><br /></span><a href="http://www.babyjives.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #66cccc;"></span></a><span style="color: #66cccc;"><a href="http://babyjives.blogspot.com/2010/12/holly-day-silhouette-ornament.html">www.babyjives.blogspot.com</a><br /></span><a href="http://www.babyswank.blogspot.com/">www.babyswank.blogspot.com/</a><span style="color: #330000;"><br /></span><a href="http://www.babysindulgencebyjocelyn.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #999999;"></span></a><span style="color: #999999;"><a href="http://babysindulgencebyjocelyn.blogspot.com/2010/12/rocky-road-fudge.html">www.babysindulgencebyjocelyn.blogspot.com/</a><br /></span><a href="http://www.handmadewhimzy.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #999999;"></span></a><span style="color: #999999;"><a href="http://handmadewhimzy.blogspot.com/2010/12/holly-day-blog-hop-from-etsymom-team.html">www.handmadewhimzy.blogspot.com/</a><br /></span><span style="color: #999999;"></span><a href="http://katekatenyc.blogspot.com/2010/12/etsymom-blog-hop.html">www.katekatenyc.blogspot.com</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.caramagic.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #66cccc;"></span></a><span style="color: #66cccc;"><a href="http://caramagic.blogspot.com/2010/12/etsymom-holly-day-blog-hop-pleated.html">www.caramagic.blogspot.com/</a><br /></span><a href="http://www.onlyterrastreasures.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #330000;"></span></a><span style="color: #330000;"><a href="http://onlyterrastreasures.blogspot.com/2010/12/tutorial-make-your-own-chinese-takeout.html">www.onlyterrastreasures.blogspot.com/</a><br /></span><span style="color: #330000;"></span><a href="http://silverrosedesigns.blogspot.com/2010/12/lets-do-some-holly-day-hopping.html">www.silverrosedesigns.blogspot.com</a><span style="color: #330000;"> </span></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.quirefly.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #330000;"></span></a><span style="color: #330000;"><a href="http://quirefly.blogspot.com/2010/12/holly-day-fun-cranberry-pudding-with.html">www.quirefly.blogspot.com</a><br /></span><span style="color: #999999;"></span><a href="http://cinnamonspicecrafts.blogspot.com/2010/12/come-blog-hop-with-etsymom-team.html">www.cinnamonspicecrafts.blogspot.com/</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #999999;"> <span style="color: #999999;"></span><a href="http://handprintlady.blogspot.com/2010/12/holiday-tutorial-gift-from.html">www.handprintlady.blogspot.com</a></span></div><br /><br /><div align="left" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Here's how it works:<br />1. Hop through each of the blogs listed above to get fabulous holiday inspiration and leave a comment. If you are starting at a blog in the middle of the Hop, start back at the <a href="http://etsymom.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #330000;"><b>EtsyMom Blog</b></span></a>. You may have to scroll down a bit on the blogs to find the Blog Hop posts as the week progresses.<br />2. Leave a comment on the <a href="http://etsymom.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #330000;"><b>EtsyMom Blog</b></span></a> post between now and December 11, 2010.<br />3. Enter to win our giveaway by doing any of the following. For each thing you do, you will be entered into the drawing one more time:</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #66cccc;"><b>~Leave a comment</b></span> on the <a href="http://etsymom.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #330000;"><b>EtsyMom Blog</b></span></a> post between now and December 11, 2010.<br /><b><span style="color: #66cccc;">~Leave a comment</span></b> on the Holly Day Blog Hop posts for any of the blogs listed above between Dec 5 and Dec 11, 2010.<br /><b><span style="color: #66cccc;">~Join </span></b>the <a href="http://etsymom.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #330000;"><b>EtsyMom Blog</b></span></a><b><span style="color: #66cccc;"> email list</span></b> (fill out the form in the right hand column).<br /><b><span style="color: #330000;">~Become a follower of </span></b><b>the <a href="http://etsymom.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #330000;">EtsyMom Blog</span></a>!</b> Just click the "Follow" button in the lower right column.<br /><b><span style="color: #999999;">~"Like" the </span></b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#%21/pages/EtsyMom-Team/275723105716"><b><span style="color: #999999;">EtsyMom Facebook Page</span></b></a><span style="color: #999999;"><b>.</b> </span><br /><br /></div><div align="left" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #330000;"><span style="color: black;"><b><span style="color: #330000;">Share</span></b> </span>about this Blog Hop <span style="color: #330000;"><b>on your own blog</b></span>, posting a link to this page.</span></div><div align="left" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #999999;"><b>Share</b></span> about this Blog Hop <span style="color: #666666;"><b>on Facebook</b></span>, posting a link to this page. </div><div align="left" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #330000;"><b>Share</b></span> about this Blog Hop <span style="color: #330000;"><b>on a message board or forum</b></span>, posting a link to this page.</div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">To let us know you've done these things, please come back to the <a href="http://etsymom.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #330000;"><b>EtsyMom Blog</b></span></a> post and leave a comment for each thing you did. <b><i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></i></b><br /><b><i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sorry - you cannot enter the giveaway here on my blog. </span></i></b><br /><br />On December 11, 2010 we'll choose a winner using the Random Integer Generator from random.org. The winner will receive this super sweet gift basket full of handmade holiday goodies, including: </div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">a pair of Turquoise Earrings from <a href="http://www.stoneymistdesign.etsy.com/">http://www.stoneymistdesign.etsy.com/</a> </div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">a greeting card from <a href="http://www.homemadebyamanda.etsy.com/">http://www.homemadebyamanda.etsy.com/</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">a lampwork bead bracelet by <a href="http://handmadewhimzy.etsy.com/">http://handmadewhimzy.etsy.com/</a> </div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">sterling silver and Swarovski pearl/crystal holiday earrings by </div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/signaturesterling">http://www.etsy.com/shop/signaturesterling</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">a cream colored cotton scarf given by <a href="http://www.zoegirldesigns.etsy.com/">http://www.zoegirldesigns.etsy.com/</a> </div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">a raincloud ornament from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/babyjives">http://www.etsy.com/shop/babyjives</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">a matching splat mat and baby bib from <a href="http://www.babysindulgence.etsy.com/">http://www.babysindulgence.etsy.com/</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">two pair of earrings from <a href="http://quirefly.etsy.com/">http://quirefly.etsy.com/</a><br />a gift pack of over 30 pages of vintage paper ephemera by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/countrychiccottage">http://www.etsy.com/shop/countrychiccottage</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">a lovely sustainable stocking from <a href="http://www.rikrak.etsy.com/">http://www.rikrak.etsy.com/</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">a set of holly jolly gift tags from <a href="http://cinnamonspice.etsy.com/">http://cinnamonspice.etsy.com/</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">a set of toddler pajamas in a style of the winner's choice from <a href="http://heatheregley.etsy.com/">http://heatheregley.etsy.com/</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">a $15 gift certificate from <a href="http://camelotstreasures.etsy.com/">http://camelotstreasures.etsy.com/</a></div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A gift certificate from <a href="http://babyswank.etsy,com/">http://babyswank.etsy,com/</a><br />A Custom copper heart necklace from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ct2designs">http://www.etsy.com/shop/ct2designs</a></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><img alt="" border="1" src="http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn2/Craftycinnamonspice/87d28c43.jpg" style="display: block; height: 355px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 427px;" /> </div><div align="center" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TPsH_0VmMaI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/Vg4MAF2y-lQ/s1600/Five+Generations+formal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TPsH_0VmMaI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/Vg4MAF2y-lQ/s320/Five+Generations+formal.jpg" width="226" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I, as a part of five generations of wonderful women, am so very blessed this December to be celebrating my grandmother's 100th birthday.&nbsp; Gram has always been known for her incredible holiday baking.&nbsp; One of our family favorites among her famous cookie collection (Sea World Orlando even asked to use her cookie recipes when they opened their Florida Festival exposition) are her Candy Bar Brownies.&nbsp; Here is the recipe first in her hand writing and then printed below.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TPsIhBJ08vI/AAAAAAAAFeU/_xhGhQQKLFg/s1600/Candy+Bar+Brownies+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TPsIhBJ08vI/AAAAAAAAFeU/_xhGhQQKLFg/s1600/Candy+Bar+Brownies+1.JPG" /></a></div></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TPsIrGTAvGI/AAAAAAAAFeY/fWlZB7q2aOM/s1600/Candy+Bar+Brownies+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TPsIrGTAvGI/AAAAAAAAFeY/fWlZB7q2aOM/s1600/Candy+Bar+Brownies+2.JPG" />&nbsp;</a><br /><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><u><b>Candy Bar Brownies</b></u></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;">2 chocolate covered Mounds Bars - 4 sections</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;">1/2 c. shortening<u><b>&nbsp;</b></u>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1 c. flour</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;">1 c. sugar&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1 tsp. salt</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;">2 eggs &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1 tsp. vanilla</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;">1/2 c. chopped walnuts (optional)</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;">In a large saucepan melt candy bars &amp; shortening over low heat, stirring constantly.&nbsp; Remove from heat.&nbsp; Add remaining ingredients and blend well.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;">Spread in greased 9" square pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 - 30 minutes.&nbsp; While warm, cut in bars. </div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">Your next stop in the Holly Day Blog Hop is</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://allyouneeddesigns.blogspot.com/2010/12/holly-day-blog-hop-with-etsymom-street.html" target="_blank">http://allyouneeddesigns.<wbr></wbr>blogspot.com/2010/12/holly-<wbr></wbr>day-blog-hop-with-etsymom-<wbr></wbr>street.html</a> </div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;">Happy Holidays to all &amp; enjoy the Hop!</div></div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-1712236388153371312010-10-05T17:49:00.000-04:002010-10-05T17:49:45.601-04:00HIGHWAYS & BYWAYS, PART 2 - Finding Gomer, via Mayberry<div style="text-align: justify;">After the disappointing visit to the Lincoln Ridge Pumpkin and Mum Fall Festival, we ventured on in search of Gomer and a traveling Welsh exhibit ~ only stopping in twelve towns across the country.&nbsp; With Kevin definitely having Welsh ancestry and me being fairly confident of some (still working on that side of the family tree but with my maiden name, I'm thinking, good grief, there's got to be some Welsh blood in there somewhere!), we were very curious to see the exihibit.&nbsp; Neither of us having heard of Gomer (oh gee, ya' think??), we did a little online research before our trip and learned that the very small community (just slightly over 200 folk) is home to the <a href="http://ohio.llgc.org.uk/index.php">Wales-Ohio project</a>, including a <a href="http://welsh-society.org/museum.html">museum</a> with incredible resources and interesting events (although it's not open in January, February, and March because "it's just too cold and nobody shows up").</div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Of course, the first challenge was to actually find Gomer.&nbsp; I mean, in northwest Ohio, there are a lot of places a town of 200 can hide.&nbsp; Having taken a cursory look at Mapquest, we were convinced that surely we could find Gomer Road (obviously the ONLY road that would lead to the "promised land") somewhere along SR 30 so that's the direction we headed.&nbsp; We didn't find it.&nbsp; We did find Mayberry Road and were greatly tempted to follow that....hmmm....but a few u-turns and finally a stop at a nearby Speedway where there was a great debate among those in attendance, we had the directions we needed to Gomer.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TKuZKACjERI/AAAAAAAAFbg/5wdSGo7Z354/s1600/thumbnail.aspx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TKuZKACjERI/AAAAAAAAFbg/5wdSGo7Z354/s1600/thumbnail.aspx.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The <a href="http://www.wales.com/en/content/cms/English/USA/Exhibitions/Exhibitions.aspx">Welsh in America exhibit</a> was being hosted by the Gomer U.C.C. and at the time we arrived was well attended.&nbsp; In the center of the room were 6 two-sided topical banners telling the story, the history of the Welsh in America, and for us, it was fascinating to feel so connected to this story.&nbsp; There were some things that we knew, but much we learned.&nbsp; We now know that Ellis Island was named for a Welshman, Samuel Ellis, who had a tavern on the island, and that the phrase, "keeping up with the Joneses" arose out of 19th century New York when a wealthy Welsh couple named Jones kept improving their estate and their neighbors kept trying to do the same.&nbsp; We also learned that the Welsh came to America bringing their ideas of equal rights, free speech, and non-conformity (yay!).</div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Surrounding the room were items from the <a href="http://welsh-society.org/museum.html">Gomer Welsh Museum</a> and hostesses served us (frequently!) Welsh treats which we enjoyed greatly (and picked up some recipes for a few) - Welsh cakes, imported Welsh cheese, scones.&nbsp; Yes, our trip to Gomer was definitely the "win" for the day.</div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Despite the treats we enjoyed at the Welsh exhibit, we had planned to wrap up our day with a visit to Landeck, home of Keith's Tavern and its "World Famous Fried Chicken."&nbsp; More country roads, more bean fields, and more trees showing their autumn colors and we pulled into Landeck, passing Kill Road just inside the town limits ~ I commented, "Who would want to live on 'Kill Road'?"&nbsp; We found Keith's Tavern easily ~ I know, I know, it's not like Gomer and Landeck make it hard on us :) ~ and were seated, fortunately, just before what we are guessing Sunday early evening mass had let out as the place filled almost to capacity about ten minutes after we arrived.</div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">We both ordered the fried chicken and were happy to be seated under the big screen TV so we could get the news that the Rays had clinched first place in the ALC East.&nbsp; It also helped to pass the time, and I do mean time, that we had to wait for our meal.&nbsp; Now, maybe someone can comment on here and tell me that "home-fried" chicken takes twenty to twenty-five minutes to prepare...I don't know.&nbsp; That's why I don't run a restaurant.&nbsp; But I have had "home-fried" chicken at other places that was served in a considerably shorter time.&nbsp; That being noted, I do need to say that the chicken I had at Keith's was great, and yes, I licked my fingers when I was done.&nbsp; So a definite "thumbs up" on the chicken....but the sides, well, let's just say, next time I'll order a four-piece chicken and skip the sides completely.&nbsp; I had mashed potatoes (pretty sure they were homemade but they were "gummy") and anytime I get coleslaw served in the little plastic container with the cover...well, I just don't go there.&nbsp; Rolls?&nbsp; Call me cynical but I'm guessing GFS.&nbsp; So, our trip to Keith's in Landeck ended up as a "bye."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">All in all, not too bad a day for a Sunday Highways and Byways....stay tuned :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-16321372086773058942010-10-04T19:07:00.000-04:002010-10-04T19:07:22.744-04:00HIGHWAYS & BYWAYS - A Win, Loss, and ByeYesterday was our Sunday drive ~ a chilly, windy fall afternoon, but perfect for exploring the highways and byways of NW Ohio and eventually NE Indiana as more Sundays come our way. We had three destinations in mind - the Lincoln Ridge Pumpkin and Mum Festival, Gomer for the traveling Welsh exhibit, and finally, Landeck to try Keith's Tavern's "world famous" fried chicken.<br /><br />First stop - Lincoln Ridge where we had our "loss" of the day (financially and event-wise). We had read about this festival on the <a href="http://www.ohiobeautiful.com/g3/annual-fall-mums-and-pumpkin-festival-convoy-ohio.html">Ohio Tourism site</a> where we were looking forward to "a hay ride.&nbsp; Go(ing) out into the field and pick(ing our) own pumpkin, just the right one...Have you ever been through a corn tunnel?&nbsp; Here will be the opportunity to do this and tell all your friends about it.&nbsp; You can participate in the straw stack, a goat boardwalk and sit back and enjoy the bonfire to warm you up while you enjoy some delicious food."&nbsp;<br /><br />Now we are not so naive to believe that all of these "goodies" would be free, but the Ohio Tourism site lists the event itself as "free admission" so you can imagine our surprise when we pulled in the drive to be met by an imposing cowboy-hatted gentlemen you looked us up and down and then said, "It'll be $15.00 for your carload."&nbsp; So stunned, in fact, that, yes, we just handed over the money, no questions asked :/&nbsp; I know, I know -- we should have put the car in reverse or inquired what was under the hat....but obviously we were under the total false advertisement hypnotic spell and simply handed Mr. Lincoln Ridge $15.00 as Kevin whispered "Oh, s..."<br /><br />Trying to think the best, we parked the car and ventured out among the activities, hoping that the purple jack-o-lantern wrist bands we had been gifted with would, indeed, entitle us to free food, free pumpkins, free fun for all.....not....food was for sale.&nbsp; Pumpkins were 30 cents a pound (I raised and sold pumpkins in a prior life - they weigh a LOT!).&nbsp; However, there, was one freebie that we got to enjoy (worth the $15? I'll let you decide).&nbsp; When we had the Pumpkin Patch, Dad alway "dreamed" (or joked, lol) about having a pumpkin catapult -- here's the "Punkin Chunkin" we got to experience at Lincoln Ridge -- all $15 worth of it :)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwdAe5Du6rTJiQ3dZy8nPeCG78W85JfQren-w4-Z7tk5d2LEzb9D69e112vcTHPMefAsVPnadspakqVZeFnXw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0' /></div><br />Check in tomorrow as things improved greatly when we found Gomer (yep, Gomer!) and finished up with supper at Landeck.Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-47483263254353430592010-09-29T18:13:00.000-04:002010-09-29T18:13:25.793-04:00WEDNESDAY WISDOM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TKO5uWh7zYI/AAAAAAAAFaU/dNCb0s5kPTA/s1600/DSC00815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TKO5uWh7zYI/AAAAAAAAFaU/dNCb0s5kPTA/s320/DSC00815.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Delicious autumn!&nbsp; My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns.&nbsp; ~George Eliot</div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-13935477947699657102010-09-28T19:02:00.000-04:002010-09-28T19:02:35.695-04:00TUESDAY TREASURES<div style="text-align: justify;">Lots to treasure this Tuesday so let's get started....first, in case you haven't heard ~ I'm going to be a Mimi again! How exciting is that!&nbsp; I must say that the "first time around" with Miss Abby has been more than incredible, so the bar has been set very, very high for grandchild #2, but I have no doubt that he or she (we find out in just another week or so!) will have no trouble warming our hearts every bit as much :).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Next, if you are an artisan, crafter, or "creator-wanna-be," don't miss out on <a href="http://www.artfire.com/groupdeal">ArtFire's</a> one-time, limited offer to open a Pro-Account Shop on their awesome site for only $5.95 per month for life....FOR LIFE....yes, I said, for life....NO OTHER FEES with <a href="http://www.artfire.com/groupdeal">ArtFire</a> ~ no listing fees, no percentage of your sale fee....this is a GREAT deal, especially given the marketing tools and support that ArtFire provides.&nbsp; I've had a basic shop for some time now - not wanting to make the $$ commitment to go "pro" - but with this offer, I'm "in" for sure.&nbsp; Compared to Etsy, this really will be a bargain ~ and <a href="http://www.artfire.com/">ArtFire</a> has become Etsy's equivalent (and is edging ahead, some say) in the quality "handmade" marketplace.&nbsp; Take a look around -- see what's offered &amp; give it some serious thought....but don't take too long.&nbsp; This "treasure" is only good before October 1st!&nbsp; After that, the Pro Accounts will remain at their $15.95 per month level.&nbsp; Eek!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A reminder of my special upcoming Mimi-addition and another "heirloom" treasure I'd like to share with you is a custom order bracelet that was ordered just this week from the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/signaturesterling">SignatureSterling Etsy shop</a>.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/6998928/grandmas-gems-sterling-silver-swarovski">"Grandma's Gems"</a> is available for up to 16 (!!!) grandchildren (this picture shows a bracelet made for 5 grandchildren, using 2 birthstones for each one).&nbsp; Called <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/6998928/grandmas-gems-sterling-silver-swarovski">"Grandma's Gems,"</a> this can also be designed as a mother's bracelet and is made using all sterling silver, Swarovski pearls and crystals.&nbsp; I'm reminded this week that I still need to make one for myself! :) </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/signaturesterling?section_id=5279685"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TKJyksMns4I/AAAAAAAAFaE/7TT5MkTF81Q/s320/Grandmas+Gems.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-60152084637173393312010-09-27T20:02:00.000-04:002010-09-27T20:02:42.486-04:00MONDAY BLUES? HAVE A CUPCAKE!<div style="text-align: justify;">First really chilly and rainy day of fall here ~ and of course, a Monday, to beat....but no blues, okay?&nbsp; New cure for the Monday (or Tuesday, Wednesday, ....you get the idea...) blahs is to try a glass (ok, maybe 2) of&nbsp; vino from <a href="http://www.cupcakevineyard.com//index.cfm">Cupcake Vineyards</a> of the Central Coast, California.&nbsp; </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We first tried this favorite while in SW Florida on our honeymoon in June and loved the smoothness of the Chardonnay.&nbsp; Now, you need to understand our "skilled" expertise at selecting wines....first, we look within the price range we are willing and able to buy (just being honest, here, right?!); second, we look for a label that catches our eye - that's the fun part - labels can be so creative; then, finally, we check the size of the punt, having heard "through the grapevine" (ha, ha, ha!) that a good punt means a better wine ~ we have no idea as to the factual basis of that but we like thinking that at least one of our criteria sounds like we know what we're talking about (especially when we tell people we pick our wine by the label!) :)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TKEpqF1QTsI/AAAAAAAAFZM/x5z7kI9nc64/s1600/Cupcake+wine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TKEpqF1QTsI/AAAAAAAAFZM/x5z7kI9nc64/s320/Cupcake+wine.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">But, seriously, this little treat has been a special one for us ~ we've had a hard time finding it back here at home.&nbsp; We were able to find other Cupcake Vineyard varieties ~ Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot ~ but not the Chardonnay, even checking our best "go-to" places (<a href="http://www.cupcakevineyard.com/index.cfm?method=homepage.showpage">Cupcake Vineyard</a> DOES ship, but not to our state).&nbsp; I was thrilled when I discovered two bottles when shopping in my daughter's college town ~ and yes, I bought them both :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">List price for the Cupcake Chardonnay is $12.00 ~ I was able to pick up our last two bottles for $9.99.&nbsp; Icing on the cake :)</div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-31911968237768568252010-09-23T14:36:00.001-04:002010-09-24T08:33:23.291-04:00Hey, Women - Girl Up!!Ok, I know, I know, I am so NOT in the targeted demographics for this organization, but I was so moved, motivated and made more mindful of myself and my world when I heard Elizabeth Gore from <a href="http://girlup.org/">GirlUp.org</a> speak yesterday on MSNBC that I had to share...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=10,0,0,0" height="245" id="msnbc8e10c6" width="420"><param name="movie" value="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32545640" /><param name="FlashVars" value="launch=39310290&amp;width=420&amp;height=245" /><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="wmode" value="opaque" /><embed name="msnbc8e10c6" src="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32545640" width="420" height="245" FlashVars="launch=39310290&amp;width=420&amp;height=245" allowscriptaccess="always" allowFullScreen="true" wmode="opaque" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.adobe.com/shockwave/download/download.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash"></embed></object></div><div style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; color: #999999; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-top: 5px; text-align: center; width: 420px;">Visit msnbc.com for <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted rgb(153, 153, 153) ! important; color: rgb(87, 153, 219) ! important; font-weight: normal ! important; height: 13px; text-decoration: none ! important;">breaking news</a>, <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032507" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted rgb(153, 153, 153) ! important; color: rgb(87, 153, 219) ! important; font-weight: normal ! important; height: 13px; text-decoration: none ! important;">world news</a>, and <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032072" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted rgb(153, 153, 153) ! important; color: rgb(87, 153, 219) ! important; font-weight: normal ! important; height: 13px; text-decoration: none ! important;">news about the economy</a>&nbsp;</div><div style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; color: #999999; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-top: 5px; text-align: left; width: 420px;"></div><div style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; color: #999999; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-top: 5px; text-align: left; width: 420px;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.girlup.org/">GirlUp</a>, a United Nations Foundation, has TONS of information and resources to share <a href="http://www.girlup.org/">here</a>, but the best way to help is to take the <a href="http://www.girlup.org/get-involved/high-five.html">"Give a High Five" Challenge</a> NOW ~ don't wait ~ it's easy-peasy...just spread the word, spend $5 (c'mon, cheaper than a pizza and a little more than a large latte), and tweet, tweet, tweet ~ especially to any girls you know.&nbsp; Let's go, ladies -- <a href="http://www.girlup.org/">GirlUp</a>! :)</span></div><div style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-top: 5px; text-align: left; width: 420px;"></div><div style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; color: #999999; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-top: 5px; text-align: center; width: 420px;"></div><div style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; color: #999999; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; margin-top: 5px; text-align: center; width: 420px;"></div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-89173745067715274252010-06-30T20:14:00.000-04:002010-06-30T20:14:10.570-04:00Being the Water<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TCvVynOz8pI/AAAAAAAAFW4/FUdguSJ_Asg/s1600/South+Beach3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/TCvVynOz8pI/AAAAAAAAFW4/FUdguSJ_Asg/s320/South+Beach3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It has been a month ~ a year ~ of incredible changes...deep life changes for me and those that I love.&nbsp; I have been so very blessed to discover my life and love partner and celebrate our new journey with our family around in us in the most intimate, "made for us" wedding.&nbsp; My youngest daughter, so gifted and talented in many areas, has now graduated from high school and is excitedly preparing for her new journey ~ college ~ where a new world awaits to help her discover and develop those gifts and talents even more.&nbsp; I was able to embrace my son after two years away in Africa, home to celebrate all these milestone events with us and share with us the wonder, joy, and challenges of his work with the Peace Corps ~ and understood more fully in my heart that his true home, at least for now, is, indeed, across the ocean, in a village who loves and needs him, in a country he has come to love as well.&nbsp; I am amazed at the miracle of my granddaughter who just, it seems, a twinkling ago, was a babe in arms, and now toddles around, babbling, signing words, and of course, speaking the word that will always melt my heart, "Mimi." :)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have watched my mother grow stronger each day, rediscovering herself, step-by-step, as she walks now alone after the death of my father ~ such a challenging walk, but such strength she has shown and what new roads may lay ahead?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">All of this change, even the most positive and wondrous events, can be head-spinning and heart-stirring.&nbsp; When my son was home, he posted a quote from a Greek philosopher on his Facebook wall ~ "You can never step in the same river twice."&nbsp; Change, good - bad - just change, is inevitable.&nbsp; Nothing remains the same.&nbsp; When I start to feel overwhelmed by the change around me (and yes, even all the good change can become overwhelming....along with graduations and college and weddings and happy sons in Africa and daughters and granddaughters and mothers come planning and more planning and did I say planning and moving and maybe moving and commuting and calendars and vacations and financial planning and....and....so yes, you get the point), I hold on to the phrase "be the water."&nbsp; Just go with the flow - let go - don't try to plant your feet in the sand and stand still against the waves.&nbsp; Just be the water and flow with it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I think tomorrow afternoon's weather looks good for heading out to the farm to do some floating on the pond.</div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-13888880770878193022010-03-16T15:35:00.000-04:002010-03-16T15:35:19.468-04:00TUESDAY'S TREAT - Luck o' the Irish Sale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.60421589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.60421589.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Well, aren't you the lucky one ~ you've stumbled on the perfect Tuesday Treat today, even better than a shamrock or a friendly leprechaun!&nbsp; In celebration of St. Patrick's Day, today's treat will last ALL WEEK long (ending Friday, March 19th, midnight, EST) and is an unbelievable lucky BOGO (buy one, get one half off) that is good on anything in the shop <i>except custom orders</i> <i>and shipping</i>.&nbsp; WOW!&nbsp; Now that's some Irish luck for you!</div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">So, stop by the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/signaturesterling">SignatureSterling Etsy shop</a> now for the best selection before another lad or lassie gets first pick!&nbsp; Be sure to put "TREAT" in the "Notes to Seller" at checkout and wait for a revised invoice before making payment (or if you prefer to make full payment immediately, I will refund your BOGO discount through PayPal).&nbsp; Discount applies to equal or lesser value item purchased and multiple items may be combined and receive this discount ~ but remember, custom orders and shipping do not apply.&nbsp; If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at <a href="mailto:signaturesterling@gmail.com">signaturesterling@gmail.com</a>.</div><br />Also, don't forget, "local" friends of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/signaturesterling">SignatureSterling</a> always receive free shipping!<br /><br />Happy St. Patrick's Day, everyone!Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-14068313468153835082010-03-10T08:36:00.000-05:002010-03-10T08:36:57.720-05:00WORDLESS WEDNESDAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S5egViApooI/AAAAAAAAFNs/V7Y3nsmsK_0/s1600-h/DSC07315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S5egViApooI/AAAAAAAAFNs/V7Y3nsmsK_0/s320/DSC07315.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-25719451268219323482010-03-09T10:25:00.000-05:002010-03-09T10:25:15.877-05:00TUESDAY'S TREAT - Time for Turquoise!It's almost spring and all the "fashionistas" are showing turquoise as the "in" color for spring and summer - time to check your accessories and see what you've got to flaunt the new color as well! It's such a fun one and sure to bring sunny thoughts no matter the weather :)<br /><br />Today's treat is 20% off (WOW!!!) all items in the shop which feature the color "turquoise" (just go to the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/signaturesterling">SignatureSterling homepage</a> and search with the keyword 'turquoise' to see the items).&nbsp; Here are a couple to get you started!<br /><br />~ <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28459586">Turquoise Dreams Earrings&nbsp; </a>-<span style="font-size: small;"> Blue Lampwork, White Freshwater Pearls, and Sterling Silver </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.82158152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.82158152.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.32602825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.32602825.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: right;">~<a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13564715">Caribbean Dreams Necklace</a><span style="font-size: small;"> Lampwork, Etched Wood, Czech Glass, Freshwater Pearls, Swarovski Crystals, and Sterling Silver</span></div><br /><br />Just be sure to put "TREAT" in the "Notes to Seller" when you checkout and wait for a revised invoice before making payment (or if you prefer to make full payment immediately, I will refund your 20% discount through PayPal).<br /><br />This Tuesday Treat is good today only through midnight tonight, March 9th, EST.&nbsp; Discount does not apply to shipping or to "non-treat" items in the shop.Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-75179784810629387662010-03-08T15:57:00.000-05:002010-03-08T15:57:19.561-05:00MONDAY MUSINGS<div style="text-align: justify;">Now I know that spring does not officially begin for a couple of more weeks, but after the winter that we've endured - and yes, I do mean endured....and with daylight savings time beginning this coming weekend (what is up with that, anyway??), I'm not waiting any longer!&nbsp; Yes, it's time for the home decor change-over - the snowmen are going away and out come the spring pastels, Easter decorations (I mean, it's early this year, so hey, I'll be ready!), flowers, and sunshine all around!&nbsp; Made the short trek to the storage shed to get the needed totes in today's incredible sunshine and unbelievable warmth (we seriously can't remember what 50 degree weather feels like - and yes, I did have my windows open for a while just to breathe the fresh air and enjoy it!).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So begone my once precious snowmen - no more of you will I see until November when I'll once more be ready for white dustings and won't recall this endless gray.&nbsp; Bring on the sun!</div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-48773149023731858422010-02-24T10:04:00.000-05:002010-02-24T10:04:58.933-05:00WORDLESS WEDNESDAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S4U_kA_aLCI/AAAAAAAAFLg/4OWoB6di-3Y/s1600-h/DSC01658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S4U_kA_aLCI/AAAAAAAAFLg/4OWoB6di-3Y/s320/DSC01658.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S4U_9VqVbMI/AAAAAAAAFME/ZUE0lhhlAb4/s1600-h/DSC01663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S4U_9VqVbMI/AAAAAAAAFME/ZUE0lhhlAb4/s320/DSC01663.JPG" /></a></div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-3027923628838790802010-02-23T08:11:00.000-05:002010-02-23T08:11:50.945-05:00TUESDAY TREAT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.34030953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.34030953.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Dream a little dream with today's Tuesday Treat ~ get 20% off these sterling silver <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14005959">"Starlight Earrings"</a> through midnight EST tonight!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Be sure to put "TREAT" in the "Notes to Seller" at checkout and wait for a revised invoice before making payment (or if you prefer to make immediate payment, I'll refund your discount through PayPal).&nbsp; The discount does not apply to shipping.&nbsp; Hurry - these are OOAK!&nbsp; Only one pair available!</div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-7033243368238005082010-02-18T17:32:00.000-05:002010-02-18T17:32:49.835-05:00THANKFUL THURSDAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S329OdwOSOI/AAAAAAAAFJI/SUisxtSiPTE/s1600-h/Abby+Smile+try.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S329OdwOSOI/AAAAAAAAFJI/SUisxtSiPTE/s200/Abby+Smile+try.jpg" width="133" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S329ZI9dwzI/AAAAAAAAFJQ/C4ePlWIt3RM/s1600-h/Abby+French+Dress+8months.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S329ZI9dwzI/AAAAAAAAFJQ/C4ePlWIt3RM/s200/Abby+French+Dress+8months.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S32-DpSpjoI/AAAAAAAAFJY/zPh4xz-WDgI/s1600-h/Abby+at+Cosi+11+months+with+Sarah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S32-DpSpjoI/AAAAAAAAFJY/zPh4xz-WDgI/s200/Abby+at+Cosi+11+months+with+Sarah.jpg" width="200" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Well, it's no secret what I'm giving thanks for today! :)&nbsp; What a shower of blessings my dear granddaughter has been and continues to be every single day ~ I am amazed at how quickly the past year as gone by.&nbsp; It really does seem like just yesterday that I was holding her in my arms, just hours after her birth, my heart filled with overwhelming joy and love.&nbsp; That love and joy grows each day as I see her grow ~ and I celebrate her birthday today knowing that Abigail Elizabeth is a special, wonderful little girl, dearly loved by many.&nbsp; Happy Birthday, Abby!</div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-29732576731263433342010-02-17T11:12:00.000-05:002010-02-17T11:12:46.044-05:00WORDLESS WEDNESDAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3wUJUwVODI/AAAAAAAAFIo/g5TEZgOgFdk/s1600-h/Abby+at+Cosi+11+months.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3wUJUwVODI/AAAAAAAAFIo/g5TEZgOgFdk/s320/Abby+at+Cosi+11+months.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3wUU0zMzZI/AAAAAAAAFIw/R4hd71wYolU/s1600-h/Sarah+age+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3wUU0zMzZI/AAAAAAAAFIw/R4hd71wYolU/s320/Sarah+age+3.jpg" width="294" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3wVCvv0KoI/AAAAAAAAFI4/xj7-WcWw04Y/s1600-h/Hannah+One+Year.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3wVCvv0KoI/AAAAAAAAFI4/xj7-WcWw04Y/s320/Hannah+One+Year.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3wVUew2oFI/AAAAAAAAFJA/zCg_s8nznzg/s1600-h/Susan+Beth+one+year.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3wVUew2oFI/AAAAAAAAFJA/zCg_s8nznzg/s320/Susan+Beth+one+year.jpg" width="222" /></a></div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-89858487300185531152010-02-16T09:28:00.000-05:002010-02-16T09:28:57.671-05:00TUESDAY TREATIt's Abby's birthday week and to continue the celebration all week long, today's treat features the special family "heirlooms" in <a href="http://signaturesterling.etsy.com/">the shop</a>!&nbsp; Today only (until midnight, EST) receive 10% off any <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/signaturesterling?section_id=5279685">"Heirlooms to Order"</a> ~ special custom order bracelets and necklaces for moms, grandmas, and children, all in sterling silver.<br /><br />Here are a few customer favorites...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.38191061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.38191061.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15283975">~ Mama's Gems (2 Names Mother's Bracelet)</a><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.11219051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.11219051.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6998928">~ Grandma's Gems</a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.17478924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.17478924.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8931822">~ Rachel's Heirloom, A Grow with Me Necklace</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">See the<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/signaturesterling?section_id=5279685"> "Heirlooms to Order" section</a> of the shop for all of the items available at this "treat" special today!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Because these are all custom orders, do NOT order the individual listings.&nbsp; Instead, email me (signaturesterling@gmail.com) with the name of the item you would like to order for your Tuesday Treat (before midnight tonight!) :) and I will make a custom listing for you to order.&nbsp; Your custom order will reflect the 10% discount (discount does not apply to shipping).</div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-50102767000111220302010-02-15T10:30:00.000-05:002010-02-15T10:30:41.477-05:00MONDAY MUSINGS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3lmadd2SUI/AAAAAAAAFGw/j-PSmMLzIXA/s1600-h/Sarah+and+Baby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3lmadd2SUI/AAAAAAAAFGw/j-PSmMLzIXA/s200/Sarah+and+Baby.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>A year ago this week we were eagerly and not-so-patiently awaiting the birth of my first grandchild, Abigail Elizabeth -- yes, as trite as it sounds -- time does fly!&nbsp; It truly seems like only yesterday that my beautiful daughter was captured in this pose...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3loGzjzemI/AAAAAAAAFHA/NU_tO9jGAc4/s1600-h/Abby+praying2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3loGzjzemI/AAAAAAAAFHA/NU_tO9jGAc4/s200/Abby+praying2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>And each day brought us closer to the anticipated arrival ~ surrounding our newest baby girl, the fifth generation (!), with prayers of peaceful love.&nbsp; No doubt about it, when she made her debut, she did so with grace and peace ~ has it really been a year?&nbsp; Happy Birthday Week, Abby!&nbsp; Mimi loves you :)Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-35851332238249764902010-02-10T12:19:00.000-05:002010-02-10T12:19:58.183-05:00WORDLESS WEDNESDAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3Lqqlez5LI/AAAAAAAAFGQ/jmiUB4QDN2k/s1600-h/DSC01678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_4u4GB4PPMns/S3Lqqlez5LI/AAAAAAAAFGQ/jmiUB4QDN2k/s320/DSC01678.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5180108983817798516.post-44991997926528793682010-02-09T08:04:00.001-05:002010-02-09T08:10:11.028-05:00TUESDAY TREATFebruary's birthstone is the beautiful amethyst ~ always wonderful royal purple for any season ~ and today's treat from the shop.&nbsp; Any item featuring "amethyst" (just go to the <a href="http://signaturesterling.etsy.com/">shop home page here</a> and put "AMETHYST" in the SEARCH window to find the selected items) is available today only for 20% off!&nbsp; Offer expires at midnight tonight, EST, and does not apply to shipping.&nbsp; Here are a few of the amethyst goodies waiting for you!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com//il_fullxfull.21449664.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com//il_fullxfull.21449664.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=10146113">~ Violets Aren't Blue&nbsp;</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com//il_fullxfull.42981968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com//il_fullxfull.42981968.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16738663">~ Fall Vintage Harvest Necklace</a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.42983662.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.42983662.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16739350">~ Just a Sip Please Earrings</a><br /><br />Just put "TREAT" in the "Notes to Seller" during check-out and wait for a revised invoice (or if you prefer to make full payment immediately, I'll refund the 20% discount through PayPal).&nbsp; Remember, offer expires tonight at midnight, EST.Mimihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01217787460176506710noreply@blogger.com0